A charming and indulgent cocktail, the Cottontail Martini captures the essence of spring with its creamy coconut and vanilla profile, accented by smooth white chocolate liqueur. Served in a coconut-rimmed glass and topped with a marshmallow or coconut truffle “tail,” this whimsical drink is a delightful addition to Easter gatherings, spring celebrations, or any occasion calling for a festive and elegant treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and creamy flavor profile with coconut, vanilla, and white chocolate
Visually stunning presentation with a coconut-rimmed glass and cottontail garnish
Quick to prepare with just a few simple ingredients
Perfect for Easter and springtime events
Dessert-like in taste—a cocktail that feels indulgent and special
Easily customizable for different sweetness levels or flavor twists
Fun and festive without being overly complicated
Smooth, frothy texture achieved by shaking with ice
Elegant enough for dinner parties, playful enough for themed events
A conversation starter with its creative garnish and pastel appeal

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

vanilla vodka
white chocolate liqueur
coconut cream or cream of coconut (such as Coco Lopez)
half and half or milk
pure vanilla extract
ice

For garnish:

sweetened shredded coconut
corn syrup (for rimming the glass)
large marshmallow or coconut truffle (to resemble a bunny tail)

Directions

Rim a chilled martini glass by dipping the edge in corn syrup, then into shredded coconut to coat.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vanilla vodka, white chocolate liqueur, coconut cream, half and half, and vanilla extract.
Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds, until the mixture is well-chilled and frothy.
Strain the cocktail into the prepared martini glass.
Garnish by placing a large marshmallow or coconut truffle on the edge or beside the glass to resemble a fluffy cottontail.
Serve immediately and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Calories: 215 kcal per serving

Variations

Make it dairy-free: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of half and half
Add a chocolate drizzle: Swirl chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring for extra decadence
Use flavored vodka: Try coconut vodka or marshmallow vodka for added dimension
Add a pastel touch: Tint the drink lightly with food coloring for a themed look
Serve over ice: For a less formal presentation, serve in a rocks glass over ice cubes
Make a frozen version: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy cocktail
Try a rim of crushed cookies: Use vanilla wafers or shortbread crumbs instead of coconut for a different texture
Top with whipped cream: For an even more indulgent dessert-style cocktail
Add a splash of amaretto: For a nutty undertone to complement the coconut
Garnish with a chocolate egg: Place a mini chocolate egg in the glass or on the rim for an Easter touch

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
Make-ahead: Mix all ingredients (except ice and garnish) and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Shake with ice just before serving.
No reheating necessary: This is a chilled cocktail, meant to be served cold.
Garnish note: Rim and garnish just before serving for best presentation and texture.

FAQs

What does a Cottontail Martini taste like?

It has a creamy, dessert-like flavor with notes of coconut, white chocolate, and vanilla, similar to a coconut truffle in liquid form.

Can I make this cocktail in advance?

You can mix the ingredients ahead and chill, but shake with ice and garnish just before serving to preserve the texture and appearance.

What’s the best coconut cream to use?

Cream of coconut (like Coco Lopez) is ideal for its sweetness and thickness. Avoid unsweetened coconut cream unless adjusting other ingredients.

Can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?

Yes, omit the vodka and white chocolate liqueur, and replace with coconut milk and white chocolate syrup for a mocktail version.

Is there a substitute for white chocolate liqueur?

You can use vanilla liqueur, amaretto, or a splash of white crème de cacao as alternatives.

How do I keep the coconut rim from falling off?

Use a light layer of corn syrup and press the coconut gently onto it. Chill the glass for a few minutes to help it set.

Can I double or batch this recipe?

Yes, multiply ingredients and shake in batches or store chilled in a pitcher until ready to serve. Shake each serving individually with ice.

What kind of vodka works best?

Vanilla vodka enhances the dessert flavor, but regular vodka can be used with a slight increase in vanilla extract.

Is this drink overly sweet?

It is on the sweeter side, but you can adjust by reducing the coconut cream or using unsweetened milk.

Can I serve it in another type of glass?

Yes, coupe or stemless martini glasses work well. You can also serve over ice in a rocks glass for a more casual version.

Conclusion

The Cottontail Martini is a delightful blend of creativity and indulgence, perfect for spring gatherings, Easter celebrations, or anytime you want a cocktail with charm and character. With its creamy texture, coconut flair, and festive garnish, it’s a drink that’s as enjoyable to serve as it is to sip. A sweet, elegant treat that turns any occasion into something a little more magical.

Cottontail Martini

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 cocktail
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

The Cottontail Martini is a whimsical, Easter-inspired cocktail that blends vanilla vodka, white chocolate liqueur, coconut cream, and milk for a creamy, dessert-like sip. Finished with a coconut rim and a fluffy marshmallow “tail,” it’s a sweet and festive drink that’s as cute as it is delicious.

Instructions

Rim a chilled martini glass with corn syrup, then dip into shredded coconut to coat the rim.
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine vanilla vodka, white chocolate liqueur, coconut cream, half and half, and vanilla extract.
Shake well until chilled and frothy.
Strain into the prepared martini glass.
Garnish with a large marshmallow or coconut truffle on the rim or floating for a playful “cottontail” effect.

Serve immediately and enjoy this festive cocktail.

Notes

For extra sweetness, drizzle white chocolate syrup into the glass before pouring.
Make it non-alcoholic with coconut milk, vanilla syrup, and a splash of white hot chocolate.
Chill all ingredients ahead for an extra-refreshing serve.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Category: Drinks
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: American, Holiday